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    Cardiovascular Sonography, AS

    Quick Links

    A cardiovascular sonographer aids physicians in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders affecting the cardiovascular system. Using ultrasound and other technology, sonographers collect and evaluate images of the heart, the heart valves and related blood vessels.

    Cardiovascular sonographers also evaluate, analyze and record information related to blood vessel anatomy and blood flow of the vessels.

    Cardiovascular sonographers work closely with patients. People who choose this career find it rewarding because they are helping others while making a good living doing it.

    According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), diagnostic medical sonographers (including cardiovasular sonographers, cardiovascular technologists/technicians and vascular technologists) will have a much-faster-than-average job growth rate of 10 percent from 2022 to 2032.

    Salary ranges vary by state, experience level and type of healthcare facility. The BLS reported that the national median salary in May 2022 for diagnostic medical sonographers (including cardiovascular sonographers, cardiovascular technologists/technicians and vascular technologists) was about $78,210 annually.

    Want to learn more? Watch our most recent Virtual Information Session.

    Program Perks
    • This Associate of Science degree in sonography is a 21-month program.
    • Students are able to sit for adult echocardiography and vascular technology examinations administered by the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS).
    • In addition to student-focused instruction and laboratory learning experiences, students gain hands-on experience through supervised clinical training at hospitals and clinics locally and throughout the United States.
    CAAHEP

    Accreditation & Licensure

    The Cardiovascular Sonography program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs  upon the recommendation of the Joint Review Committee on Education in Diagnostic Medical Sonography. Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs, 9355 - 113th St. N, #7709, Seminole, FL 33775, (727) 210-2350. www.caahep.org

    Graduates are able to sit for examinations administered by the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS).

    Admissions Information

    Criteria

    Applicants are evaluated on the basis of the following criteria:

    Due to the high volume of applications for the limited number of seats in this program, priority will be given to applicants with strong academic performance. The best-qualified applicants will be reviewed for admission after the January 31, 2025, priority deadline.

    Requirements

    To be considered for admission, the following items must be submitted to the Admissions Office:

    • NMC undergraduate application
    • Official high school transcript
    • Official GED test scores, if applicable
    • Official transcripts from all colleges attended

    Deadlines

    Prospective students may apply anytime and are accepted from deadlines throughout the year. Applications will be reviewed upon receipt, and students will be notified of their application status by postal mail, email or phone.

    Costs & Financial Aid

    NMC is committed to helping you find every avenue to finance your education. View the Tuition by Program & Degree page for a comprehensive list of all fees.

    Cost Per Credit Hour

    $623

    Cost of Attendance

    NMC Scholarships

    NMC Scholarships consist of funds generously provided by the Methodist Hospital Foundation to assist our students.

    Student Grants or Loans

    Visit our Financial Aid page to learn more about what's available and how to apply.

    Employee Education Benefits

    Employees of Methodist Health System can find details on the MHS Intranet.

    External Scholarships

    Visit our Scholarships page to learn more.

    Calculate Your Net Price

    Nebraska Methodist College Net Price Calculator.

    Curriculum

    The program requires a minimum of 70 credit hours. All students are required to complete specific coursework. This list should only be used as a curriculum guide. Course listings and required curriculum are subject to change. 

    The echocardiography portion of the curriculum focuses on imaging of the heart, looking at the chambers, valves, vessels and functionality of the heart. Students also focus on the anatomy and physiology of the cardiovascular system.

    The vascular technology portion of the curriculum focuses on the anatomy of the circulatory system to help diagnose and treat conditions involving the venous and arterial systems, including the neck, arms, legs and abdomen.

    Included within this list is the Educated Citizen Core Curriculum. All students seeking to complete an undergraduate degree at Nebraska Methodist College must complete this set of Arts and Sciences requirements. As an educated citizen, NMC graduates are competent practitioners and respond productively to the complex dynamics of the world, utilizing a diversity of disciplines and perspectives.

    First year - First Semester

    CVS 110
    VASCULAR ANATOMY & IMAGE OPTIMIZATION
    DETAILS

    This course explores basic anatomy and imaging techniques of the vascular system. Students begin performing carotid and lower extremity venous ultrasound examinations. This course incorporates lab sessions to perform basic imaging optimization skills by scanning and understanding the basic knobology of the ultrasound equipment. Correlation of theory to practice is measured through attendance, participation, quizzes, assignments, scanning assignments, and proficiency exams over the course of the semester. 

    CVS 111
    CARDIAC ANATOMY & IMAGE OPTIMIZATION
    DETAILS

    This course is explores basic anatomy and imaging techniques of the cardiac system. Students learn different basic cardiac images and optimization skills to achieve the best quality image. This course incorporates lab sessions to start basic imaging, and learning basic knobology of the ultrasound equipment. Correlation of theory to practice is measured through attendance, participation, quizzes, assignments, scanning assignments, and proficiency exams over the course of the semester. 

    DMS 140
    APPLIED SECTIONAL ANATOMY
    DETAILS
    This course provides an introduction to the basics of cross-sectional anatomy of the head, neck, chest, abdomen andpelvic anatomy with emphasis on structures visualized in diagnostic medical sonography, computerized tomography(CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and nuclear medicine. The anatomy will be evaluated in multiple planes.

    DMS 206
    SONOGRAPHIC PHYSICS I
    DETAILS
    This course will introduce fundamental sonographic theory including terminology, equipment, basic transducer construction and function, introduction to Doppler, and adjusting system controls for image acquisition. This course will cover beginning concepts in sonographic physics including pulsed sound parameters, intensities, and interactions of sound with media, range equation, transducers, sound beams, and axial and lateral resolution.

    DMS 209
    SONOGRAPHIC SEMINAR I
    DETAILS

    This course facilitates the student’s entry into diagnostic medical sonography. Students explore personal and professional values in relation to the healthcare setting. Students acquire skills to assist them with time management, building critical thinking skills, and the ability to professionally communicate in the field of sonography.

    HPS 100
    HEALTHCARE FUNDAMENTALS I
    DETAILS

    This course serves as an overview for all members of the health care delivery team. The focus is placed on the basic skills needed to perform quality patient care, relationships with other health care team members, patient safety and scope of practice for each profession, vital signs, HIPAA, infection control, invasive procedures and self-care. 

    SCI 206
    PATHOPHYSIOLOGY/PHARMACOLOGY
    DETAILS
    This survey course begins with a major focus on cellular function and pathology, including inflammation, infection, immune response, metabolism, and fluid disequilibria. These concepts serve as the foundation for the course as alterations in various bodily functions are examined. Alterations in body fluid and electrolyte homeostasis, fluid acid/base balance, gastrointestinal, urinary, respiratory, cardiac, endocrine, and neurological functions are emphasized. The student will be introduced to pharmacological principles and utilize critical thinking to explore the relationship between those concepts and commonly used classes of medications.

    Prerequisites: SCI 200 or BIO 226

    First year - Second Semester

    COR 101
    EDUCATED CITIZEN 101
    DETAILS

    CVS 220
    ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY I
    DETAILS

    This course explores the anatomy, physiology, pathophysiology and imaging techniques of the Cardiac system. Students describe the different views needed for an echocardiogram and are able to recognize characteristics of normal valves by 2D, color Doppler and Doppler. Students correlate information learned didactically to scanning skills in the laboratory. 

    Prerequisites: HPS 100, DMS 140, DMS 206, DMS 209, SCI 206, CVS 111

    CVS 220L
    ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY I LAB
    DETAILS

    The laboratory course enhances and reinforces material taught didactically in CVS 220. Students learn scanning techniques in the laboratory on real-time ultrasound equipment. Correlation of theory to practice is measured through attendance, scanning assignments and proficiency exams over the course of the semester. Students learn how to perform all 2D images of an echocardiogram, color and Doppler. By the end of the lab course, the student is able to perform all components of a complete echocardiogram. 

    Prerequisites: HPS 100, DMS 140, DMS 206, DMS 209, SCI 206, CVS 111

    CVS 221
    VASCULAR ULTRASOUND I
    DETAILS

    Students explore the anatomy, hemodynamics, physiology and pathophysiology of the vascular system. Students apply knowledge of disease processes. This course focuses on the sonographic appearances of various vascular examinations.

    CVS 221L
    VASCULAR ULTRASOUND I LAB
    DETAILS

    This laboratory course is utilized to enhance and reinforce material taught didactically in CVS 221. Students learn scanning techniques in the laboratory on real-time ultrasound equipment. Correlation of theory to practice is measured through scanning assignments and proficiency exams over the course of the semester. 

    DMS 306
    SONOGRAPHIC PHYSICS II
    DETAILS

    This course continues where DMS 206 leaves off. The following sonographic principles are covered: real-time imaging, pulse echo instrumentation, displays and image processing, dynamic range, harmonics and contrast agents, hemodynamics, Doppler principles, Doppler optimization, artifacts, quality assurance and bioeffects. 

    Prerequisites: DMS 206

    HUM 219
    MEDICAL LAW AND ETHICS
    DETAILS
    This course is an introduction to the fundamentals of medical laws, ethical principles and bioethics for the healthcare practitioner. The application of these fundamental principles will be applied using current medical-legal issues and bioethical dilemmas of today. The course is designed to improve the student’s ability to critically think and make sound decisions that are in alignment with professional ethics and values, integrity and judgment. The course will include such areas as confidentiality, privacy, consents, responsible practice, professionalism, bioethical dilemmas, and key legal aspects that influence the healthcare practitioner.

    First year - Third Semester

    COM 255 or 262
    BEGINNING HEALTHCARE SPANISH OR AMERICAN SIGN LANGUAGE BASIC SKILLS
    DETAILS

    Beginning Healthcare Spanish

    This course will provide basic knowledge of the Spanish language and Latino culture, and emphasize the importance of this knowledge as it relates to healthcare in the United States. The student will demonstrate an ability to express ideas and thoughts in Spanish using both verbal and nonverbal communication skills in a culturally competent manner. In addition, the student will develop strategies to continue acquiring proficiency with the Spanish language beyond this course.

    OR

    American Sign Language Basic Skills

    This course presents practical communication skills needed for health professionals working with deaf clients. Everyday communication is the centerpiece of every lesson. Topics revolve around sharing information which is vital in the healthcare industry. Grammar is introduced in context, with an emphasis on developing question and answering skills that would occur between healthcare professional and patient. Students will learn conversational strategies to help maintain a conversation with deaf patients. Students will appreciate the diversity of deaf people and their culture. Interaction activities will allow students to rehearse what they’ve learned.

    COR 201
    EDUCATED CITIZEN 201
    DETAILS

    CVS 310
    Clinical Experience
    DETAILS

    This clinical course allows the student to experience the clinical setting firsthand. The student begins their first hands-on clinical experience by obtaining basic images of cardiac and vascular ultrasound images. The student is able to observe daily lab functions and a variety of patient care scenarios.

    Prerequisites: DMS 306, CVS 220, CVS 220L, CVS 221, CVS 221L

    CVS 322
    VASCULAR ULTRASOUND II
    DETAILS

    This course focuses on expanding upon vascular pathologies. Topics covered within the course are abdominal evaluations, preoperative mapping, penile Doppler, transcranial Doppler (TCD), among other conditions. Students correlate information learned didactically to scanning skills in the laboratory. 

    Prerequisites: DMS 306, CVS 221, CVS 221L

    CVS 325
    ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY II
    DETAILS

    This course is designed to explore a variety of pathologies that can be present on an echocardiogram. Students learn and perform measurements that are needed to evaluate pathologies on a case-by-case scenario. During this course, students learn to read echocardiogram exams and create preliminary echocardiogram reports. Students correlate information learned didactically to scanning skills in the laboratory. 

    Prerequisites: DMS 306, CVS 220, CVS 220L

    Second year - First Semester

    CVS 213
    PRINCIPLES OF EKG
    DETAILS

    In this course, students identify key parts of an EKG rhythm and the steps to interpreting a variety of cardiac rhythm strips. This course focuses on EKG theory and interpretation. The student learns how to perform an EKG on a patient, as well as identify basic rhythms and the components of an EKG. Students review case studies throughout this course. 

    Prerequisites: CVS 220, CVS 220L

    CVS 281
    CLINICAL PRACTICUM I
    DETAILS

    Students are assigned to the clinical setting to begin advancing their hands-on experience performing sonographic procedures and practice patient care skills. The student begins to develop skills to carry out sonographic examinations and gains the ability to recognize normal and abnormal sonographic patterns. The student works closely with their clinical preceptor, as well as other staff technologists. Students begin to perform examinations including transthoracic echocardiograms, carotid duplex, lower extremity venous and arterial duplex, upper extremity venous and arterial duplex, ankle/brachial indices and segmental arterial pressures. Correlation of theory to practice is measured through attendance, clinical logs and evaluations.

    Prerequisites: CVS 310

    CVS 360
    CLINICAL REASONING
    DETAILS

    Clinical reasoning is designed to sharpen the student’s deductive reasoning and sonographic interpretation skills through the use of case studies and medical literature. The essential components of a case presentation are introduced. Students present cases in an open forum for discussion and evaluation. Students also expand on the principles of evidence based practice and research methods in vascular technology and adult echocardiography.

    Prerequisites: CVS 310

    HUM 220-279
    HUMANITIES ELECTIVE
    DETAILS
    Students may choose a World of Ideas elective course. The course must be categorized within one of the following three sections: The World of Ideas: Human Connection The World of Ideas: Historical Perspectives The World of Ideas: The Arts See All Humanities Course Descriptions for specific course information.

    Second year - Second Semester

    CVS 286
    CLINICAL PRACTICUM II
    DETAILS

    As a continuation of Clinical Practicum I, students continue to develop their sonography skills under the supervision of their clinical preceptor. The student more actively participates in examinations, daily lab functions, and patient care. In addition, students continue to perform examinations in cardiac and vascular sonography.

    Prerequisites: CVS 281 

    CVS 307
    Sonographic Seminar II
    DETAILS

    Students will be required to take an ARDMS specialty examination (Cardiac or Vascular) as part of this course prior to graduation. This course will assist students in the transition from student sonographer to professional sonographer, including ARDMS registry exam preparation. Additional topics such as resume writing, interview and negotiation skills, understanding benefits and different avenues of the sonography career ladder are also discussed. 

    Prerequisites: Successful completion of all program DMS and EC Core Coursework prior to the beginning of the course

    SSC 325
    APPLIED ANALYSIS OF RESEARCH
    DETAILS
    Evidence-based practice is an important component of effective clinical management. This course allows students to develop skills in applied statistics and research while learning to critically examine healthcare information from a variety of sources, including but not limited to professional journals, governmental reports and public media.

    Meet the Faculty

    Our nursing faculty are highly experienced and credentialed in their own fields, giving you constant real-world insight you can use. While any instructor can recite from a textbook, ours go a step further and draw from vast personal and professional experiences. Instructors here care as deeply about their students as they do the subject matter and it shows.

    Meet the Faculty

    Additional Information

    Sonography Program Outcomes

    Graduates of the Multispecialty Sonography and Cardiovascular Sonography programs will:

    1. Be competent entry-level sonographers in the cognitive (knowledge), psychomotor (skills), and affective (behavior) learning domains in the adult cardiac and vascular sonography concentrations.
    2. Model ethical and culturally sensitive professional attitudes, behaviors, and ethics that will encourage life-long learning, reflective practice and professional growth and development.
    3. Exhibit didactic and clinical skills that include the ability to perform age appropriate patient care by assessment of physiological and psychological status incorporating communication skills, critical thinking skills, problem solving skills, and decision making abilities.
    4. Attain the NMC Educated Citizen skills to become Reflective Individuals, Effective Communicators and Change Agents.

    Program Effectiveness Outcomes

    To view NMC's Sonography program effectiveness outcomes, click here:

    Program Effectiveness Outcomes PDF

    Cardiovascular Sonography Blog Posts

    Professional Resources

    To learn more about the field of echocardiography, please visit the websites below:

    Program Handbook

    Technical Standards

    The purpose of this policy is to determine the physical and emotional abilities of a student in the Department in compliance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1991.

    Policy:
    It is your responsibility to understand the duties, responsibilities, skills and abilities required of your chosen program/profession. In addition to the technical standards as described above, please review the information regarding Diagnostic Medical Sonography at the O*NET website.

    Procedure:

    1. Behavioral and Social Skills - Possess qualities of compassion, integrity, empathy and interpersonal skills. Possess emotional health necessary to effectively complete professional responsibilities.
    2. Communication - Read, write, speak, hear, and observe patients to effectively communicate the patient's condition and interact with the patient and other healthcare individuals.
    3. Integrative and Quantitative Skills - Problem solve utilizing computation, synthesis, and analysis. Visualize and analyze three dimensional relationships.
    4. Motor and Functional Abilities - Perform therapeutic and diagnostic procedures.
      *Sonography students must assist with moving and lifting patients and equipment of up to 50 lbs or more, up to 50% of the time. Visual abilities are necessary for viewing the ultrasound screen 85% of the time. This is adapted from Methodist Health System Performance Development Plan -Job Description for the sonographer
    5. Observation - Use instruments requiring sight, e.g., ultrasound and radiographic equipment, health assessment tools and devices, i.e. blood pressure cuff, stethoscope,etc. Make observations and evaluations. Observe results of treatment and reactions.